NEWARK (May 20, 2013) – Construction will begin this week on a connector that will join two existing trail facilities within the White Clay Creek State Park along Hopkins Road, as part of Governor Jack Markell’s First State Trails and Pathways Initiative.

The purpose of the project is to create safer conditions for hikers, bicycle riders, runners and walkers who use the trail system in White Clay Creek State Park. Improvements will include creating a separated and protected shoulder within the roadway for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The project is 0.2 miles in length, located between Creek Road and the northernmost end of the Pomeroy Trail where it joins Hopkins Road. The project area crosses the bridge over White Clay Creek.

“By closing the remaining gaps within the 75 miles of trails around Newark and White Clay Creek State Park, we will further enhance one of the best outdoor experiences in the region for cyclists, runners, and hikers,” said DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara.

“Our goal has always been to create and sustain multiple modes of transportation in Delaware,” said DelDOT Secretary Shailen Bhatt. “The opening of the connector in White Clay Creek State Park will provide more options for pedestrians and bicyclists in the region.”

DelDOT is overseeing all of the project development and construction, and administering the construction of the project through a private contractor.

Trail users come up from Newark via the Pomeroy Trail into White Clay Creek State Park. The Pomeroy and Creek Road form a 3.4 mile loop within the 3,044 acre park.

Construction is underway to pave portions of road shoulders and install flexible delineators, as well as a low railing on the bridge walls. In addition, pedestrian crosswalks will define crossings, and signage will note that pedestrians and bicyclists will be crossing Hopkins Road.